Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Susan Hockfield
May 31, 2019
Susan Hockfield, the former president of MIT and a renowned neuroscientist, dives into her new book, exploring how biology can drive the next technological revolution. She discusses the innovative culture at MIT, sustainable energy solutions, and the revolutionary potential of 'living machines' in healthcare and environmental challenges. Hockfield emphasizes the need for collaboration between disciplines to tackle pressing issues like clean water and cancer detection, while expressing concern over declining trust in scientific expertise.
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Hockfield's Path to MIT Presidency
- Susan Hockfield transitioned from neuroscientist to academic leader, first at Yale then MIT.
- She was the first life scientist to be president of MIT, highlighting the institution's focus on science and engineering.
MIT's Culture of Innovation
- MIT's founding mission was technology transfer, making commercialization a core value.
- Unlike other institutions, MIT faculty often start companies, leave briefly, and return, fostering a two-way exchange between academia and industry.
Interdisciplinary Cancer Research
- The Koch Institute integrates cancer biologists and engineers to accelerate cancer research.
- This approach aims to combine biological and engineering perspectives for faster progress.
